Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

A Whole Cell Bioreporter Approach to Assess Transport and Bioavailability of Organic Contaminants in Water Unsaturated Systems
Published on: December 24, 2014
Single-cell Raman insights into microbial strategies for sustainable phosphorus mining and recycling
Pengcheng Sun1,2, Huihui Pan2, Dong Cheng2
1College of Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, Shandong, China.
None:
Phosphorus (P) management faces a dual crisis of resource depletion and eutrophication, underscoring the need for a sustainable P cycling model. This review systematically elaborates on the microorganism-driven "Mobilization, Retention and Buffering" (MRB) strategy to enable sustainable P cycling. In this framework, phosphorus-solubilizing microorganisms (PSMs) mobilize P, while polyphosphate (poly-P)-accumulating organisms (PAOs) ensure efficient P retention and buffering via poly-P storage. We highlight the unique strengths of single-cell Raman spectroscopy (SCRS), including culture-independent and non-destructive analysis at single-cell resolution, and discuss how it supports in situ identification, mechanistic characterization, and mining of functional P-cycling bacteria. Finally, we outline SCRS-enabled opportunities to advance the MRB strategy for efficient P recovery, recycling, and utilization.
Related Concept Videos
Environmental Applications of Microorganisms
Microbial Nutrition
Microbes and Other Elemental Cycles
Microbial Bioremediation of Uranium
Microbial Leaching
Bioplastics

